Kazakh National Arrested for Smuggling ‘Zombie Drug’ into South Korea

A man in his twenties from Kazakhstan was arrested at Gimpo International Airport for smuggling mephedrone, also called the “zombie drug,” into South Korea. The Korea Customs Service seized 61.5 grams intended for distribution. An accomplice remains at large, and authorities are enhancing measures to combat drug smuggling by foreigners.

Recently, a man in his twenties from Kazakhstan was apprehended by Korean customs for attempting to smuggle mephedrone, a synthetic stimulant colloquially referred to as the “zombie drug,” into South Korea. The Incheon International Airport branch of the Korea Customs Service reported that the individual has been charged under the Narcotics Control Act and has subsequently been referred to prosecutors. Additionally, a wanted notice was issued for an accomplice from Kazakhstan.

Mephedrone is recognized as a new psychoactive substance, increasingly associated with public health crises in countries such as Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan. It has been linked to severe agitation and violent behaviors, earning its notorious nickname due to incidents of users exhibiting aggressive actions, including biting. Authorities revealed that the quantity of mephedrone seized was 61.5 grams (2.2 ounces), which translates to approximately 2,050 potential doses.

The investigation initiated in October after customs discovered the drugs hidden within candles in an express parcel originating from Ukraine. To catch the suspects, investigators executed a controlled delivery operation, posing as couriers, though the suspects frequently altered their delivery addresses and phone numbers, complicating the pursuit. A significant lead was established when authorities located a credit card receipt in the suspect’s clothing, allowing them to enhance their surveillance efforts.

The suspect was eventually arrested at Gimpo International Airport just before his planned departure from the country, while his partner managed to flee back to Kazakhstan and remains at large. Authorities disclosed that the suspect was residing illegally in Korea and had collaborated with his accomplice to distribute narcotics, having coordinated with foreign suppliers through the encrypted messaging application Telegram. Their distribution strategy targeted areas populated by foreign nationals.

Furthermore, investigations revealed that the suspect had a history of using drugs, including mephedrone and MDMA, commonly referred to as ecstasy, in nightlife venues throughout Korea. A customs official remarked on the growing trend of drug smuggling by foreign nationals, emphasizing, “We will strengthen drug inspections at entry points and do our utmost to crack down on smuggling networks.”

In conclusion, the arrest of a Kazakh man for smuggling mephedrone into South Korea highlights the ongoing issues related to narcotic trafficking in the region. The operation underscores the importance of vigilant customs enforcement and the challenges posed by drug networks utilizing modern communication methods. Increased scrutiny at entry points is becoming essential to combat the rising trend of drug smuggling by foreign individuals.

Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com